Ulster Rugby’s flying start to the season has been given a boost with the signing of a new sponsorship deal with Aer Lingus.

The airline is to provide Ulster Rugby with air travel as well as supporting the development of travel and accommodation packages for Ulster supporters to away matches.

Declan Kearney, Aer Lingus Director of Communications said the link-up with Ulster Rugby represented a significant sporting first for the company.

“Shane Logan, the Chief Executive of Ulster Rugby and his team have shown great professionalism in helping Aer Lingus bring this deal to reality,” he said.

“As the official airline of Ulster Rugby we are absolutely delighted to have the responsibility of providing transport from George Best Belfast City Airport and Dublin Airport for the playing squad, the support team and fans, throughout our extensive UK and European network.”

Aer Lingus said the sponsorship deal reflected its commitment to the local community. The airline is moving its operations in Northern Ireland to George Best Belfast City Airport this autumn, with flights starting in October.

Kearney added: “Aer Lingus plans to push the sponsorship by deploying interactive marketing initiatives with the fans at Ulster Rugby fixtures in the RaboDirect PRO12 League season as well as the Heineken Cup campaign.”

Phillip Polack, Ulster Rugby Business Development Director said: “The reputation of Aer Lingus as a proactive organisation fits superbly with our ambitions at Ulster Rugby and we look forward to cementing a long-lasting partnership.

“Certainly we at Ulster Rugby are convinced that Aer Lingus, through its network of value and business routes, will be a vital tool in terms of expanding the positive message we want to get across to the sporting public.

“The new season will inevitably create tremendous excitement and entertainment for local rugby supporters.

“The injection of this new sponsorship package will provide a dynamic platform for Aer Lingus to provide incentives and competitions for its existing and future customers.”